Apple watch sales resume after ban lifted, but Court Looms
Apple has secured a reprieve in its legal battle with medical tech firm Masimo, allowing the tech giant to resume sales of its Apple Watches featuring SpO2 (blood oxygen level) sensors in the US. The ban on sales had been imposed following a patent dispute, prompting Apple to appeal the decision in the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
In response to the ban, Apple swiftly removed the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 from both online and offline stores, though third-party retailers were permitted to continue sales until their existing stocks were depleted. With the temporary halt on the ban, Apple can now recommence sales through its outlets until the upcoming hearing scheduled for January 12, 2024.
The duration of the stay on the ban remains uncertain, as the appeals court may extend it, granting Apple a more extended window for sales. Conversely, the US Customs could rule against Apple, potentially leading to a renewed prohibition on the sale of smartwatches equipped with SpO2 sensors. The tech giant finds itself in a state of anticipation as it awaits further developments in this ongoing legal saga.